Onam a festival of brotherhood: Pinarayi

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has said that the concept of Nava Kerala envisions a more prosperous and modern Kerala than the traditional concept of Onam.

Inaugurating the State government’s Onam week celebrations at the Nishagandhi auditorium on the Kanakakkunnu Palace compound here on Wednesday, the Chief Minister called for resisting attempts from some quarters to portray Onam as a celebration of a particular community. “Onam is a reflection of humanitarian values and brotherhood. Everyone should try to uphold the message of Onam and unity,” he said.

Mr. Vijayan said the State was upholding the concept of welfare for the past nine years. The government’s activities were in line with King Mahabali’s welfare concept. The government had ensured adequate food stocks, animated the market, and distributed pension to 60 lakh people this Onam. As much as ₹1,200 crore had been set aside for this. Even the amount pending to paddy farmers would be given this festive season.

He underlined that nothing was impossible if the State stands united. It should attain the top spot in all parameters and become a model for the nation, Mr. Vijayan said.

Minister for General Education V. Sivankutty presented the Chief Minister with ‘Onakkodi,’ while Minister for Tourism P.A. Mohamed Riyas, who presided over the function, presented the Onakkodi to actors Ravi Mohan (Jayam Ravi) and Basil Joseph who were the guests of honour.

Mr. Mohan said Malayalam cinema had gained global recognition. “Malayalam cinema is always an inspiration. Kerala and Malayalis are much loved,” he said, expressing gratitude for the love showered by Keralites and wishing everyone a happy Onam.

Mr. Joseph, who had the audience in laughs with anecdotes about his life as a student in the State capital, pointed out that Kerala gave everyone the right to accept or disagree with opinions and ideas. Onam, he said, was a celebration of unity of Malayalis who come together to help each other in times of need.

Minister for Food and Civil Supplies G.R. Anil attended the programme.